Level I Fieldwork

There are four Level I Fieldwork experiences: adult, older adult, pediatrics and intensive. These courses integrate information learned in other MOT courses through both field experiences and classroom activities. Students are placed in a variety of settings to obtain hands-on experiences with individuals and groups.

The MOT program believes in learning by doing and as a result, active participation is encouraged with the level of involvement determined by the site, the clients served, and the student's skill level. During these experiences, students work to improve skills such as observation; communication – both written and oral; assessment; treatment planning; and intervention.

Students also grow to understand the OT process and how it impacts the clients and the facility. In the classroom, students have the opportunity to discuss and synthesize their experiences. Through the clinical and classroom experiences, students should display ethics and critical thinking while promoting occupational justice for others.

Course Descriptions

Level IA - Adult - MOT 482

Occurs in the spring semester of the first year. This fieldwork is completed in 2, one-week experiences in two different practice settings. Students complete these experiences during January (the week before spring coursework begins) and one week during the semester (typically March/April). Placements utilized include community mental health facilities, hospitals, and various outpatient clinics. Fieldwork, in concert with OT with Adults and Occupational Studies I, assists students in applying their knowledge and skills when addressing the occupations of adults.

Level IB - Older Adult - MOT 572

Occurs in the fall semester of the second year. This placement is an integration of skills learned in OT with Older Adults and Occupational Studies II. Typical placements for this experience include hospitals, outpatient facilities, extended care facilities, and home health agencies. This fieldwork addresses the needs of older adults while integrating the OT process.

Level IC - Pediatric - MOT 587

Occurs in the spring semester of the second year. Placements utilized include pediatric OT clinics, schools, special education classrooms, mental health facilities, and adaptive equipment clinics. The knowledge gained during OT with Pediatrics and Occupational Studies III assists students in comprehending the dimensions of a child's occupations and the contexts observed during fieldwork help to solidify this knowledge.

Level ID - Intensive - MOT 610

Occurs following the second year. Students complete this 3-consecutive week experience during the summer months in a clinical area of choice. This placement is a culmination of skills learned in all MOT courses to this point. This concentrated period allows students to synthesize information, put it into practice, and evaluate the results when dealing with clients and their occupational interests.